JUSTIFIED: The District Attorney has determined the January 22, 2015 officer-involved shooting of Blue Jay resident Perry Prather, 57, was justified. (File Photo)

By G. T. Houts

San Bernardino, CA – The San Bernardino County District Attorney’s office has completed its review of the January 22, 2015 non-fatal shooting of a Blue Jay man by San Bernardino County Sheriff’s deputies Jason Mascetti and Robert Maestas.

A media release states that the shooting of 57-year-old Perry Prather — under the facts, circumstances and the applicable law — was justified.

Supervising Deputy District Attorney Britt P. Imes stated in his report: “Based on the totality of Mr. Prather’s actions and the circumstances that Deputies Mascetti and Maestas found themselves facing, it is this reviewer’s opinion that the shooting was justifiable.”

THE INCIDENT

Prather was wounded by Twin Peaks Sheriff’s deputies after he reportedly aimed a shotgun at a deputy in the 400 block of Millburn Drive. The  incident occurred shortly after midnight on Thursday, January 22.

A media release from the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department following the incident stated that deputies responded to a welfare check at the Blue Jay residence at 12:07 a.m. San Bernardino County Fire also responded and staged out of the area until the situation was stable.

Dispatchers were told by the reporting party that they were concerned about the resident and asked for assistance. The caller indicated Prather may be a danger to himself and was in possession of firearms.

Deputies arrived at the Blue Jay address and attempted to make contact with Prather by telephone. Officers also made public address announcements but Prather failed to respond, according to the release.

TWO SHOTGUNS

The press release further indicated that a short time later,  Prather exited the residence holding two shotguns.

The man then allegedly raised and pointed one of the shotguns towards a deputy and deputies were forced to shoot Prather.

Prather was transported to a local hospital where he underwent surgery and survived.

GUILTY PLEA

On March 20, 2015, Prather accepted a plea bargain and plead guilty to exhibiting a firearm in the presence of a peace officer and was sentenced to 36 months of supervised probation.

(554)

A bomb threat to the Big Bear McDonalds closed the restaurant for a time Saturday. No device was found. (File Photo)

By G. T. Houts

Big Bear Lake, CA – The employees of the Big Bear Lake McDonald’s got a break yesterday at 5:50 p.m. But they weren’t lovin’ it.

The Big Bear Lake McDonald’s is located in the 41400 block of Big Bear Boulevard. (Contributed Photo)

The fast food eatery received a phoned bomb threat just before 6 p.m. on Saturday and deputies from the Big Bear Sheriff’s Station  were dispatched to the scene as employees and customers evacuated the establishment.

Big Bear Fire equipment staged near the building while the incident was investigated.

THE INCIDENT

Scanner transmissions indicated that an explosive device had reportedly been placed in the restaurant and that it was set to explode during a small time frame.

After a short time, the building was determined to be void of any explosive device and the doors to the restaurant and the drive thru were reopened at about 6:31 p.m.

THE INVESTIGATION

The investigation into the incident is ongoing.

(159)

A 59-year-old man — Dennis Griffin Pease — has been found guilty of the 2005 cold case murder of a Fresno man and dumping his body in the Cajon Pass. (File Photo)

By G. T. Houts

Dennis Pease (Booking Photo)

San Bernardino, CA – Dennis Griffin Pease, 59, has been found guilty of murdering a Fresno man and dumping his body in the Cajon Pass in 2005.

The cold case was prosecuted in San Bernardino County Superior Court by Deputy District Attorney Denise Yoakum.

Pease is being held at the West Valley Detention Center in Rancho Cucamonga awaiting sentencing on June 10 at 8:30 a.m. in Department S-12.

THE COLD CASE

Willard Eichler (Contributed Photo)

Pease was accused of killing Willard Eichler, 54, and dumping his body on Swarthout Canyon Road in the Cajon Pass, on November 11, 2005.

Swarthout Canyon Road is located east of the I-15 freeway and south of Highway 138.

In 2005, Pease was located driving Eichler’s missing Ford LTD. Pease was arrested for felon in possession of a firearm and sentenced to state prison for one year. At the time of that arrest, authorities didn’t have sufficient evidence to link Pease to the killing.

After his release from prison, Pease was a transient, according to a media release issued by the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department.

In 2011, the Sheriff’s Homicide Cold Case Team took charge of the investigation and completed additional interviews. Evidence from the scene and Eichler’s car was analyzed and linked Pease to the murder.

THE ARREST

A warrant for Pease’s arrest was issued on January 12, 2012, charging him with Eichler’s murder.

On July 18, 2012, Eichler was located by a U. S. Marshal’s Service Fugitive Task Force, he was residing in a transient camp behind a gas station in Orlando, Florida. He was eventually extradited to San Bernardino County where he stood trial for Eichler’s murder.

(226)

A 35-year-old fugitive from Utah identified as Michael John Bowden is believed to currently be frequenting the Big Bear area. (File Photo)

By G. T. Houts

Big Bear Lake, CA – An advisory has been issued by the Big Bear Sheriff’s Station that a 35-year-old fugitive from Utah — Michael John Bowden — is believed to currently be frequenting the Big Bear area.

(Michael John Bowden (Photo By Utah Department of Corrections)

Bowden is wanted by the U. S. Marshal’s Office on a no bail warrant issued by the Utah Department of Corrections (UDC) for child abuse/neglect, a second degree felony. He reportedly absconded from parole supervision.

MICHAEL JOHN BOWDEN

Bowden is a 35-year-old White male adult, 5’9″ tall, 155 lbs., with brown hair and blue eyes.

The fugitive has a tattoo on his upper left arm with a cross “Only Strong Survive” and a dragon tattoo on his right arm.

He also has a 4″ by 2″ scar on the back of his head, according to the Utah Department of Corrections.

He is known to use the alias Michael John Bowden and the nickname “Brooklyn.”

Michael John Bowden (Courtesy Photo)

REPORT SIGHTINGS

Anyone having information regarding the whereabouts of Bowden is requested to contact the Big Bear Sheriff’s Station at (909) 866-0100.

Information can also be reported anonymously by calling WE TIP at (800) 78-CRIME or WETIP online.

The Utah Department of Corrections indicates that Bowden should be considered armed and dangerous, according to officer Erik Olsen from the UDC Law Enforcement Bureau.

(1436)

By G.T. Houts

UPDATE: Friday, June 23 – 4:38 a.m.

Big Bear Lake, CA – The fire in the 200 block of Starvation Flats that led to the arrest of 30-year-old Dominique Jon Deangelis on suspicion of lighting a fire of a structure or forest was near the WorldMark by Wyndham timeshares.

Deangelis posted bail and was released from custody at 7:27 p.m. Friday evening, according to the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department.

THE FIRE

Big Bear Fire’s Assistant Fire Marshal and Public Information Officer Nick Bruinsma told ROTWNEWS.com that the fire — a 2-foot by 3-foot spot — was quickly extinguished and mopped up by Engine 282.

Scanner reports indicate that once Engine 282 arrived at the scene they radioed that the remainder of the response was cancelled because “the unit on scene can handle.”

ORIGINAL STORY

Big Bear Lake, CA – Shortly before noon Wednesday, June 22, Big Bear Sheriff’s deputies were dispatched to a report of a possible arson fire in the 200 block of North Starvation Flats Road in Big Bear Lake.

Witnesses told deputies that the fire started immediately after two subjects left the area in a vehicle.

An area check was conducted and deputies located the vehicle and subjects matching the description that was provided by witnesses.

THE OCCUPANTS

The occupants of the vehicle were identified as 47-year-old Lori Goetz and 30-year-old Dominique Deangelis, both local residents of Big Bear Valley.

Through investigation, deputies determined Deangelis started the fire, and, additionally found illegal narcotics on both subjects in the course of a search incident to arrest.

THE ARRESTS

Deangelis was booked into the Big Bear Jail on felony charges of starting a fire and possession of a controlled substance.

He remains in custody in lieu of $25,000 bail, with an arraignment hearing set for June 24.

Goetz was issued a misdemeanor citation for possession of illegal narcotics, pending a court hearing in San Bernardino County Superior Court.

THE FIRE

The fire was extinguished by locals as Big Bear Fire units arrived at the scene and was limited to a small spot fire.

Additional details will be released as they become available.

(1227)

Michael Daniel Harvey, 37, has entered a not guilty plea to failing to pull over for deputies and causing several traffic collisions. (File Photo)

By G. T. Houts

Crestline, CA – A not guilty plea to a felony count of driving with a disregard for public safety while fleeing a police officer has been entered by Michael Daniel Harvey, 37, according to court documents reviewed by ROTWNEWS.com.

Harvey was arraigned via video by Commissioner Ronald J. Gilbert from the Central Detention Center in San Bernardino. Bail was set at $100,000 and the public defender appointed.

The Central Detention Center (CDC) in San Bernardino. (Photo vby ROTWNEWS.com)

THE INCIDENT

Deputies from the Twin Peaks Station attempted to conduct a traffic stop on Monday, June 20, on an older model silver Cadillac with paper plates.

The driver of the vehicle — later identified as Harvey — failed to pull over for deputies.

THE PURSUIT

The Twin Peaks Station’s media advisory indicates that a short but erratic pursuit followed through the streets in Crestline.

Deputies observed the Cadillac driving down the middle of the road and then attempting to pass an approaching vehicle resulting in a minor traffic collision.

The suspect continued down the wrong side of the roadway, striking a second vehicle, according to the release.

In an apparent attempt to pass another vehicle, Harvey’s vehicle collided with a light pole.

The release reported that Harvey exited the while the Cadillac and while it was still in drive it collided with an oncoming car.

THE ARREST

Harvey was arrested in the area of Springwater Road  and Springy Path at 3:47 p.m., according to booking documents.

Harvey is also known as Mark Matthew Harvey.

He was booked at the Central Detention Center without incident.

COURT HEARINGS

Harvey is scheduled to appear in Department S-17 at 8:30 a.m. on June 30 for a pre-preliminary hearing.

The suspect is also scheduled for a preliminary hearing in the same courtroom on July 5 at 8:30 a.m.

(213)

On Wednesday, June 29, a disposition/reset hearing will be held for murder suspect Frank Joseph “Black Fox” Popovich, Jr. (File Photo)

By G. T. Houts

San Bernardino, CA – A disposition/reset hearing for Frank Joseph “Black Fox” Popovich, Jr., 53, who is accused of fatally shooting 42-year-old James Clark outside a Big Bear nightclub April 12, is scheduled for 8:30 a.m. on Wednesday, June 29, in Department S-17.

Frank Joseph “Black Fox” Popovich, Jr. (Facebook Photo)

Popovich remains in custody at the West Valley Detention Center on $1 million bail and is being represented by the Public Defender.

THE INCIDENT

The incident was reported shortly after 1 a.m., according to a press release issued by the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department.

Officials determined Clark and Popovich were acquaintances and were involved in a fight outside the AV Nightclub during which time Clark was allegedly shot by Popovich.

Clark was pronounced deceased after being transported to Bear Valley Community Hospital by Big Bear Fire personnel.

James Clark inside the AV Nightclub. (Facebook Photo)

COURT PROCEEDINGS

On April 14, Popovich — who operated the Black Fox Trading Company on Pine Knot Avenue — was arraigned on the murder charge.

At that time, Popovich entered a not guilty plea to the fatal shooting of the local artist.

A preliminary hearing scheduled for Tuesday, May 31, was vacated by Judge Richard V. Peel in favor of the June 29 disposition/reset hearing.

(75)

Twin Peaks deputies arrested three High Desert residents outside a Crestline residence charging them with identity theft, possession of stolen property and/or possession of narcotics. *File Photo)

By G. T. Houts

Crestline, CA – Three High Desert residents are facing identify theft, possession of stolen property and/or possession of narcotics following their arrest by Twin Peaks Sheriff’s deputies.

The call began about 7:40 a.m. with dispatchers being told one of the subjects was wearing a ski mask and was standing next to a suspicious vehicle, in the 600 block of Acacia Drive in Crestline.

THE INCIDENT

On July 30, deputies were led to the location after a witness called in to report a green older model, Nissan Sentra, was in front of a nearby residence.

Deputies arrived on scene and made contact with the three occupants of the vehicle, who were identified in a media release as Aidan Laurence Padilla, 25, from Adelanto; Samantha Elizabeth Pikop, 23, from Hesperia and Alexandra Roland, 22, from Victorville.

THE INVESTIGATION

Samantha Elizabeth Pikop (Contributed Photo)

Deputies discovered Pikop had four in county active warrants for her arrest. She was taken into custody and deputies searched the vehicle incident to her arrest.

During the search, deputies discovered several checkbooks with names on them which did not match any of the occupants of the vehicle. Deputies also located tax returns and other paperwork with names, and social security numbers on them.

CONTACT WITH VICTIMS

Officers also located a large amount of mail, belonging to the owners of the tax returns and paperwork, in the vehicle.

The media advisory shows that deputies contacted the three unidentified owners of the paperwork and checkbooks and discovered the three occupants did not have permission to be in possession of the items.

THE ARRESTS

Pikop and Padilla were arrested for P.C. 496(a), possession of stolen property and P.C. 530.5 identity theft. Padilla was transported and booked into the Central Detention Center and Pikop was transported to the West Valley Detention Center.

Roland was found to be in possession of a loaded syringe. The substance in the syringe field tested for methamphetamine.  She was charged with H&S 11377, possession of a controlled substance and cite released.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Deputies believe Pikop and Padilla may be linked to burglaries in the mountain communities, as well as the High Desert.

Persons having further information regarding this case or additional crimes connected to Roland, Padilla and Pikop, are encouraged to contact the Twin Peaks Station at (909) 336-0600 or We Tip 1-800-78-CRIME.

(217)

Richard John Parker, 36, identified as a transient by the Twin Peaks Sheriff’s Station has been arrested on a charge of felony vandalism after allegedly damaging eight vehicles in a supermarket parking lot. (File Photo)

By G. T. Houts

Crestline, CA – A 36-year-old transient — identified by the Twin Peaks Sheriff’s Station as Richard John Parker — faces a charge of felony vandalism after he allegedly caused more than $400 damage to several vehicles in the parking lot of a Crestline supermarket.

One of eight damaged vehicles vandalized while parked in a parking lot of a Crestline business. (Photo by Twin Peaks Sheriff’s Department)

Deputies from the Twin Peaks Sheriff’s Station responded to a vandalism call on Wednesday, August 3, at about 1 p.m. near the corner of Lake Gregory Drive and Lake Drive in the parking lot of Goodwin’s Market.

THE INCIDENT

Several witnesses called 9-1-1 to report that a subject, later identified as  Parker, was kicking and vandalizing vehicles in the store’s parking lot.

Richard John Parker (Booking Photo)

The suspect fled on foot and several by-standers chased him.

When deputies arrived in the area, they found Parker detained by the by-standers in the area of Lake Gregory Drive and Horst Drive in Crestline. Horst Drive is roughly a half mile from the store’s parking lot.

ARREST AND INVESTIGATION

Parker was arrested and taken into custody without incident.

While conducting the investigation, deputies discovered Parker had damaged eight vehicles in the market’s parking lot prior to being detained by the good samaritan’s.

The estimated damage for this incident is approximately $5,000.

The roof of one of the vandalized vehicles sustained substantial damage. (Photo by Twin Peaks Sheriff’s Department)

Due to Parker committing a new felony while out on his own recognizance, he was charged with P.C. 12022.1(b), New Felony Offense as well as P.C. 594(b)(1), Felony Vandalism in excess of $900.

Parker was transported to the Central Detention Center in San Bernardino for booking.

Bail is set at $100,000.

PREVIOUS INCIDENT

On July 7, deputies arrested Parker for a similar incident.

On that date, Parker was reportedly observed kicking and vandalizing parked vehicles in front of a real estate office in the 23000 block of Lake Drive in Crestline.

Damage to the eight vehicles was in excess of $5,000. (Photo by Twin Peaks Sheriff’s Department)

Parker was released on his own recognizance (OR) for the July 7 incident.

ADDITIONAL WITNESSES SOUGHT

The Twin Peaks Station is currently seeking additional witnesses to this crime and would like anyone with further information to come forward.

Additional witnesses or victims should contact Twin Peaks Sheriff’s Station an d Deputy J. Cavender at (909) 336-0600.

Callers wishing to remain anonymous are urged to call the We-tip Hotline at 1-800-78-CRIME (27463) or you may leave information online at WE-TIP.

(491)

Seven felony counts of child sex abuse have been filed against Matthew Lyons Low, 54, from Cedarpines Park. (File Photo)

By G. T. Houts

Twin Peaks, CA – A 54-year-old Cedarpines Park man is facing seven felony counts of child abuse following his arrest by Twin Peaks Sheriff’s deputies for alleged ongoing lewd and lascivious acts with a child under the age of 14. Authorities identified the suspect as Matthew Lyons Low and feel there may be additional victims.

THE INVESTIGATION

On August 22, deputies received a complaint of the possible molestation over the past eight (8) years.

A media release from the Twin Peaks Station reports that the victim confided in a friend who alerted school staff of the abuse. The school immediately notified authorities and detectives took over the investigation.

Through their investigation, detectives believed Low had been continually molesting the victim since the age of seven.

THE ARREST

The West Valley Detention Center is located in Rancho Cucamonga. (File Photo)

Detectives and deputies from the Twin Peaks Station contacted Low at his residence in the 21000 block of Sawpit Canyon Road on August 23, and took him into custody for violations of Penal Code 288(a) Lewd and lascivious acts with a child, Penal Code 288.5(a) Continual abuse of a child and Penal Code 288a(a), Oral Copulation.

Low was transported to the West Valley Detention Center where he was booked and is being held on $350,000 bail.

ARRAIGNMENT HEARING

A video arraignment hearing before Commissioner Ronald J. Gilbert was held at 1 p.m. on August 25.

Following his plea of not guilty to the seven felony counts, the court appointed the Public Defender to represent Low.

His next court appearance is a pre-preliminary hearing on September 2 at 8:30 a.m. in Department S-2.

ADDITIONAL VICTIMS

Low and his wife have been known to care for other children at their home and detectives would like to know if there are other victims who have experienced similar situations with the suspect.

If you have been victimized by Low, or have any information about this case, you are encouraged to contact Detective Michelle Brand at the Twin Peaks Sheriff’s Station at (909) 336-0600.

(1411)

Mountain residents — from one end of the mountain to the other — have once again been receiving demanding phone calls from “fake” IRS agents claiming they must be for “back taxes” immediately. (File Photo)

By G. T. Houts

Mountain Communities – Once again, mountain residents are reporting phone calls from individuals posing as United States Internal Revenue Service (IRS) employees demanding immediate payment for “past taxes” or face the consequences. Calls have been reported from Crestline, Lake Arrowhead and Big Bear City and other mountain areas.

Don’t fall for the scam as the IRS never demands money over the phone!

THE SCAM

The callers — who are able to alter caller ID information — are very aggressive and threaten victims with court action or immediate arrest if they do not pay the “back taxes.”

The fake agents convince victims to come up with a payment plan and once the victim agrees they get the victim’s credit card or bank account information.

Within minutes, the victim’s accounts are accessed and all available money is withdrawn.

BEST ADVICE

If you receive a phone call from someone identifying themselves as an IRS employee, the best advice is to not give out any information and hang up.

Likewise, if you receive an e-mail claiming to be from the IRS, do not reply and do not open any attachments or links.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

For more information visit IRS REPORT PHISHING ONLINE.

(190)

Shots fired by an unknown gunman at an occupied Rim Forest home have launched a full investigation by Twin Peaks Sheriff’s Detectives. (File Photo)

By G. T. Houts

Rim Forest, CA – Twin Peaks Sheriff’s detectives are seeking a gunman who fired several shots into an occupied residence in the 26000 block of Apache Trail in Rim Forest.

THE INCIDENT

At about 8:40 p.m. on September 13, Twin Peaks Sheriff’s deputies were dispatched to the area of Pine Avenue and Apache Trail in Rim Forest to a shots heard call.

A media release from the Twin Peaks Station indicates that several reporting parties called 9-1-1 to report hearing multiple gun shots. Deputies responded, checking the area as well as surrounding streets, for any evidence of a shooting.

At approximately 9:21 p.m., a reporting party called deputies to inform them she had heard the gun shots earlier and located a bullet hole in her residence. Deputies responded to the residence on Apache Trail and discovered the residence had been struck multiple times by gun fire.

The victim advised deputies she had just been watching television in the room where the bullets struck.

“She would have been in the room at the time of the shooting had she not gone to bed 10 minutes prior,” the media release stated. “The victim did not know who would shoot at her home.”

FOLLOW-UP INVESTIGATION

On September 14, detectives and crime scene investigators returned to Rim Forest and conducted an extensive search in the daylight hours. They discovered a utility company maintenance yard in the area had also been struck by gun fire.

Detectives and investigators determined approximately 10 rounds were fired in the direction of the maintenance yard and residence with a high powered rifle, according to the release.

The motive for the shooting is still under investigation.

PUBLIC’S ASSISTANCE NEEDED

Twin Peaks Detectives are seeking the public’s assistance with the ongoing investigation.

If you have any information regarding this case, contact Detective Mike Salazar at the Twin Peaks Station at (909) 336-0600 or anonymously at WeTip 1-800-78-CRIME.

(694)

A Superior Court Jury has found Crestline resident Steven Michael Baumgartner, 55, guilty of killing his neighbor on June 30, 2014. (File Photo)

By G. T. Houts

San Bernardino, CA – Former Riverside County Deputy Sheriff Steven Michael Baumgartner, 55, from Crestline has been found guilty of murdering 38-year-old Michael Paul Clark in Crestline on June 30, 2014.

Steven Michael Baumgartner. (Contributed Photo)

The jury found Baumgartner guilty of second degree murder and could be facing 40 years to life in prison. He was also found guilty of using a firearm, discharging a firearm and discharging a firearm causing great bodily injury.

SENTENCING

Judge Harold T. Wilson, Jr. — who presided over the lengthy trial that ended Tuesday afternoon — will pronounce sentence on Thursday, October 20.

The sentencing hearing will begin at 8:30 a.m. in Department S-15 in the San Bernardino Justice Center.

THE INCIDENT

Baumgartner reportedly shot Clark — his next door neighbor in the 23000 block of Wildwood Lane in Crestline — in the face with a .357 Magnum after the two men got in an argument outside Clark’s home.

Numerous 9-1-1 callers told San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Dispatchers about the incident that occurred about 5:14 p.m. on June 30.

First responders transported Clark to St. Bernardine Medical Center in San Bernardino where he was pronounced dead at 6:09 p.m.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Baumgartner was prosecuted by Deputy District Attorney Nelson Ng and represented by Conflict Panel Attorney Julian Ducre.

He is being held without bail at the West Valley Detention Center in Rancho Cucamonga.

(1278)

Patrick Sean Mitchell, 43, from Lake Arrowhead, has been arrested on suspicion of grand theft auto related to the theft of a motorcycle in Loma Linda. (File Photo)

By G. T. Houts

Loma Linda, CA – A 43-year-old Lake Arrowhead man — identified as Patrick Sean Mitchell — has been arrested in Loma Linda and charged with grand theft auto.

THE CASE

Patrick Sean Mitchell (Sheriff’s Department Photo)

On October 5, at approximately 5:11 p.m., San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Deputy McComas was assigned to patrol functions in the City of Loma Linda.

Deputy McComas attempted to contact a male subject located next to a motorcycle at Mountain View Avenue and Business Center Drive, according to a press release issued by the Sheriff’s Department.

The male subject reportedly fled from the deputy and ran across the Interstate 10 freeway. The subject travelled across both eastbound and westbound lanes of traffic in an effort to flee from McComas which endangered the lives of numerous motorists.

A perimeter was set and after an extensive area check, the subject was not located.

MOTORCYCLE OWNER CONTACTED

Contact was made with the owner of the motorcycle and it was determined to be stolen from an apartment complex located in the 26000 Block of Redlands Boulevard in Loma Linda.

The motorcycle was recovered and returned to the appreciative owner.

SUSPECT DETAINED

At 7:39 p.m., dispatch was contacted by Redlands Police Department after officers located a male subject who matched the physical description of the grand theft auto subject who fled from McComas in Loma Linda.

The Central Detention Center in San Bernardino. (Photo By ROTWNEWS.com)

San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department Deputy Sullivant responded to the location and verified the male subject detained by Redlands Police Department was the subject (Mitchell) who allegedly fled from McComas.

During a wants and warrants check, Mitchell was found to have a “No Bail” warrant for his arrest for failing to report to his parole agent.

Mitchell was arrested and booked into the Central Detention Center in San Bernardino.

His first court appearance is a video arraignment on the grand theft auto charge at 12:30 p.m. on Friday, October 7.

INFORMATION SOUGHT

Anyone with information regarding Mitchell’s case is urged to contact Central Station at (909) 387-3545. Callers wishing to remain anonymous are urged to call the We-Tip Hotline at 1-800-78-CRIME (27463) or you may leave information online at WETIP.

(590)

A 35-year-old Crestline man — Jason Allen Bechtol — is in custody after leading a Twin Peaks Sheriff’s deputy on a short pursuit through Crestline Streets. (Contributed Photo)

By G. T. Houts

Crestline, CA – A pursuit that lasted for several miles through the Crestline area came to a halt shortly after midnight on Lake Drive and Crest Forest Drive. Once the pursuit was terminated, deputies arrested 35-year-old Jason Allen Bechtol on suspicion of failure to yield, possession of narcotics for sale and an outstanding warrant out of Orange County.

THE PURSUIT

The Twin Peaks Sheriff’s Station reports that the pursuit began when Deputy Jonathan Cavender attempted to stop the Crestline man’s 2010 Mini Cooper for expired registration and no license plate light on Old Mill Road near Lake Drive in Crestline about 12:10 a.m.

Bechtol reportedly fled from Deputy Cavender and led the deputy on a chase for several miles reaching speeds of 35 miles per hour on single lane, narrow roaedways and failed to stop at several intersections.

The pursuit ended on Crest Forest Drive near Lakeview Drive.

THE ARREST

Bechtol is being held on $150,000 bail at the Central Detention Center. (Photo by ROTWNEWS.com)

Bechtol was arrested without incident.

The suspect had an active arrest warrant issued in January for possession of a controlled substance.

In addition, deputies found controlled substances and paraphernalia inside the Mini Cooper after the arrest.

Bechtol was booked at the Central Detention Center in San Bernardino at 1:15 a.m. and is being held on $150,000 bail.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

The case is being submitted to the San Bernardino County District Attorney’s office for review and filing.

Bechtol is scheduled for a video arraignment at 12:30 p.m. on October 13, according to booking records.

Persons with information about the case are encouraged to call the Twin Peaks Sheriff’s Station at (909) 336-0600 or WeTip at 1-800-78-CRIME.

(191)

A 14-year-old suspect has been arrested on suspicion of residential burglary and being in receipt of stolen property from a Twin Peaks home. (File Photo)

By G. T. Houts

Twin Peaks, CA – Twin Peaks Sheriff’s deputies have arrested a 14-year-old suspect on suspicion of residential burglary and being in receipt of stolen property.

THE INCIDENT

Twin Peaks deputies responded to the 200 Block of Augusta Court in Twin Peaks just after 10 p.m. on October 6, reference a residential burglary report. The victim stated between September 9 and October 6, an unknown suspect forcibly entered the victim’s residence by kicking in the front door.

The suspect entered the victim’s residence and stole a Dell laptop computer, computer mouse and computer power cord. The victim also stated the suspect rummaged through the residence leaving doors and drawers open.

The unidentified victim did not give anyone permission to enter the residence and take the property valued at about $900.

THE INVESTIGATION

Through the course of the investigation, deputies learned a 14-year-old juvenile was seen on the victim’s property during the time frame of the burglary. Deputies discovered where the suspect lived and made contact with him at his residence.

During a consent search of the residence, deputies located the stolen property inside the suspect’s residence. The juvenile — who reportedly admitted breaking into the home — was released on a citation for burglary and possession of stolen property to his legal guardian.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

The recovered property was returned to the victim.

The case has been submitted to the San Bernardino County Juvenile District Attorney’s office for review and filing.

If you have any information regarding this case, please contact Deputy Jonathan Cavender at the Twin Peaks Station at (909) 336-0600 or WeTip 1-800-78-CRIME.

(189)

The Big Bear Sheriff’s Station has a military sword in its possession and believes it may be stolen property. (File Photo)

By G. T. Houts

Big Bear Lake, CA – The owner of a military sword is being sought by the Big Bear Sheriff’s Station where deputies believe the sword may be stolen property.

Deputies at the Big Bear Sheriff’s Station are seeking the owner of this military sword. (Contributed Photo)

WAR MEMORABILIA

Currently, American war memorabilia is so hot that thieves are robbing VFW halls, museums, and even graves to supply a black market that operates online, in flea markets and through a murky network of rabid collectors, according to law enforcement and dealers tasked with identifying stolen items — some worth thousands.

Antique brokers say some of the historic war relics can bring a hefty sum. For example, an officer’s sword from the Civil War is valued between $20,000 and $30,000.

In 2011, the copper blade of a sword that was above the entrance to President Abraham Lincoln’s grave in Springfield, Illinois was stolen. It was received several months later.

CLAIM THE SWORD

To claim the sword, contact the Big Bear Sheriff’s Station at (909) 866-0100.

(139)

The Twin Peaks Sheriff’s deputies have made five arrests at an alleged drug house on Circle View Drive in Running Springs. (File Photo)

By G. T. Houts

Running Springs, CA – Five persons were arrested by Twin Peaks Sheriff’s deputies following the service of a search warrant at a suspected drug house in the 31000 block of Circle View Drive in Running Springs. All five were inside the residence at the time deputies executed the warrant.

The arrests included Running Springs residents Robert Arthur Allen, 48, Natasha Frasier, 20, Joseph Michael Leslie, 24, Charles Junior Phares, 57, and Bryce Michael Auth, 19, from Riverside.

THE SEARCH

On October 19, Deputy Jonathan Cavender authored a search warrant for the Running Springs residence. At approximately 8 a.m., deputies served the search warrant at the residence.

At the residence, deputies located five (5) digital scales, methamphetamine, multiple individual plastic baggies, which are commonly used in the sales and packaging of methamphetamine, and numerous drug paraphernalia, according to a media release issued by the Twin Peaks Station.

THE ARRESTS

At least two of the subjects arrested in Running Springs have been released on bail. (File Photo)

Allen and Frasier were arrested for violation of H.S. 11366, maintaining or operating a drug house. Allen was also found to have three outstanding warrants for his arrest. Allen was booked into the Central Detention Center and held in lieu of $235,000 bail. Frasier was booked into the West Valley Detention Center and held in lieu of $25,000 bail.

Auth was found to be under the influence of a controlled substance and booked into the Central Detention Center. Leslie was found to have five active warrants for his arrest related to narcotic and theft offenses. Leslie was booked into the Central Detention Center and held in lieu of $525,000 bail.

Phares was found to have a warrant for his arrest related to a narcotics violation. Phares is also on felony probation for weapons violations. Phares was booked into the Central Detention Center for violating the terms of his probation and is being held without bail.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Deputies have submitted the case to the San Bernardino County District Attorney’s office for review.

If you have any information regarding this case, please contact Deputy Jonathan Cavender at the Twin Peaks Station at (909) 336-0600 or WeTip 1-800-78-CRIME.

(414)

Four Sugarloaf residents were arrested on drug-related charges after a search warrant was served in the 300 block of Riverside Avenue in Sugarloaf. (File Photo)

By G. T. Houts

Sugarloaf, CA – Four Sugarloaf residents were arrested by Big Bear Sheriff’s multi-enforcement team and patrol deputies following the service of a warrant at a residence in the 300 block of Riverside Avenue issued after an investigation of possible narcotics sales.

A large amount of methamphetamine, heroin, hypodermic needles, and packaging consistent with sales of illegal substances was located in the residence. (Photo by Big Bear Sheriff’s Station)

The warrant was served at 7:59 a.m. on November 2  and suspects Gary Michael Simrak, 50; Erica Wilson, 40; Jericho Redhawk, 22, and Justina Bowden, 28, were located inside the Sugarloaf residence at the time the warrant was executed.

THE SEARCH

During the warrant search, deputies seized a large amount of methamphetamine, heroin, hypodermic needles, and packaging that is consistent with sales of illegal substances.

All four suspects were arrested without incident and booked into the Big Bear Jail.

THE ARRESTS

Gary Michael Simrak (Sheriff’s Department Photo)

Simrak was booked on a felony charge of possession of narcotics for sale. Additionally, a records check revealed that Simrak had an outstanding warrant for possession of narcotics for sale and probation violation. Simrak remains in custody without the possibility of bail, pending arraignment.

Wilson was booked on felony charges of possession of narcotics for sale and maintaining a drug house. Wilson remains in custody in lieu of $50,000 bail.

Simrak and Wilson are scheduled to appear for arraignments hearings on November 4, at San Bernardino County Superior Court.

Redhawk was issued a misdemeanor citation for possession of paraphernalia and Bowden was issued a misdemeanor citation for possession of narcotics. They are scheduled to appear in court on January 5, 2017.

(177)

San Bernardino County Sheriff’s investigators are cautioning mountain and county residents to be aware of a “kidnapping” phone scam currently make the rounds. (Contributed Photo)

By G. T. Houts

Mountain Communities – Residents of the mountain communities are being caution by the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department’s Specialized Investigations Division about telephone kidnapping scams.

KIDNAPPING SCENARIOS

A press release issued by the department outlined the typical scenario of the kidnapping calls — people receive a phone call from a person who says a family member is being held hostage, and the caller vows to hurt or kill the hostage unless the caller’s demands are met.

At this junction, the media advisory states family members will be ordered to collect personal items of value such as jewelry and money. Callers will demand items be left at a designated drop-off point or, to send money through a wire transfer.
The Sheriff’s Department advisory states that family members will be instructed to check into a local hotel nearest the drop off point and wait for further instruction.

Callers try to dissuade people from contacting their allegedly “kidnapped” relative.

WARNING SIGNS

There are several warning signs to a possible kidnapping scam.

* The calls will come from a non-local area code such as 775 or 664 or from out of the U.S., not from the phone of the kidnapped victim.

* Callers will try to keep people on the phone for as long as possible.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Sheriff’s Department investigators suggest asking to speak to the kidnap victim and to “listen carefully” to verify whether it is a family member.

Mountain and county residents are urged not to send money or provide financial information to an unfamiliar person, especially unsolicited phone calls or emails.

Do not provide names of family members or cell phone numbers to callers.

Contact your local law enforcement agency or 911 immediately to report any incidents.

For further information, please contact the Public Affairs Division at (909) 387-3700.

(95)